Britain's insomnia epidemic: Tablets and mobiles blamed for ruining a good night's sleep

TRIGGER: Using tablets and gadgets in bed stimulates the brain with 'blue light' and prevents insomniacs from sleeping [GETTY]

Insomnia is an epidemic sweeping the nation and experts have revealed that more than 28million people do not get at least seven hours a night.

While partying and pulling all-nighters are obvious culprits, researchers are also blaming the use of phones, tablets and TVs before bed.

And some of us are so attached to our gadgets that we even take them to bed with us.

The blue light emitted from the brightly-lit screens meddles with the brain's processing of melatonin – the hormone that regulates and brings on sleepiness.

“Getting less than seven hours’ sleep a night is below the recommended guidelines and is associated with a range of problems including an increased risk of weight gain, heart attacks, diabetes and cancer”

Richard Wiseman

This then causes millions of us to toss and turn throughout the night and waking up bleary-eyed and exhausted in the morning.

But not getting enough shut-eye can have more serious consequences than just feeling tired the next day.

Psychologist Richard Wiseman from Hertfordshire University said: "Getting less than seven hours’ sleep a night is below the recommended guidelines and is associated with a range of problems including an increased risk of weight gain, heart attacks, diabetes and cancer."

Nearly eight in ten people questioned said they use their smartphones, laptops and iPads every day.

Tips for a good night's sleep include switching off devices at least two hours before bed, making a to-do list for the next day and making sure the room is not too hot or cold.